Money To Be Sought For Science Complex

TALLAHASSEE — Education Commissioner Ralph Turlington agreed late Friday to recommend that the state put $843,000 into a marine science complex in Boca Raton.

Turlington will ask Gov. Bob Graham to include the environmental education project, a joint venture with the city of Boca Raton, in his budget request to the 1986 Legislature. If lawmakers approve, the city will contribute an equal amount. No money could be expected until at least July 1, 1986.

The state funding request was made by the Palm Beach County School Board and city officials to enhance the present area at the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Red Reef Park.

The money would go to construct and equip three educational buildings that will focus on work relating to marine science and engineering.

The complex, to be used by public school and university students, will aid marine research by providing a laboratory with running sea water pumped directly from the Gulf Stream -- the only such facility of its kind in the nation.

Meanwhile, Florida Atlantic University received approval Friday from the state Board of Regents to participate in the program if it should become reality.